CAMPBELL'S SOUP

Project Description

Programmed has restored the lustre of the larger-than-life soup can overlooking the Campbell Soup Company Lemnos site in Shepparton, VIC. Uniquely replicating the proportions of an actual Campbell’s soup can, this much-loved community icon is actually a water tank originally erected in the 1960’s to provide the Campbell’s facility water for production as well as an emergency reservoir in case of a fire. Today, it still supplies water for some aspects of production. The restoration, is the third in as many decades; all of which were completed by Programmed.

Project Solution and Outcome

“Programmed’s familiarity with the project’s unique requirements and connection with the tank made them a prime choice” said Campbell’s Facilities Coordinator Mark Hyland. “They know how to approach the project both technically and safely.”

Safety, in fact, was a key consideration. Sitting atop a 34 meter steel tower, the tank itself is 10 metres high but only six metres wide. As a precautionary measure due to works including confined space and at such heights, emergency services were briefed and included throughout in case a rescue was required. This was highlighted in Programmed’s and Campbell’s joint safety planning.

“Programmed combined their understanding of this project with the latest safety and specialised painting methods. This delivered a quality result, both Programmed and Campbell’s can be proud of,” said Campbell’s Engineering Manager, Brad Hall.

Improved practices such as safer and more environmentally friendly preparation methods, as opposed to traditional abrasive blasting were utilised as part of the two-week project, which was actually backed up by a year’s careful planning and preparation.

This included internal inspections to ascertain the condition of the tank lining, structural soundness, ascertaining the best method of work, assembling the right team of trades including crane operators, specialised scaffolding and, of course, painters. Accurate scheduling meant all works for the project could be completed within the two weeks the tank was not required for use. In that timeframe, Programmed had to ensure that the two-part epoxy tank liner was properly cured in time for production start-up and overcame potential disruptions posed by inclement weather and the unprecedented AFL Grand Final long weekend.